New Ferris Wheel Riding Record Set!

Clinton Shepherd, a manager of Chicago's Navy Pier, rode the tourist spot's Ferris wheel for more than two days - 384 times, up and around-setting a new world record for the longest ride at the birthplace of the amusement park favorite. Shepherd rode the Ferris Wheel for 48 hours, 8 minutes and 25 seconds, trouncing the previous record of 30 hours and 35 seconds. The first Ferris wheel was built in 1893 in Chicago for the World's Columbian Exposition. Guinness World Records allowed him to have one five-minute break each hour. He played hours of videogames to stay awake during the ride, and watched James Bond and Batman movies. His gondola on the wheel was specially outfitted with a big-screen TV, cushions and curtains. A video camera recorded the feat while volunteer timekeepers documented Shepherd's activities. Fans could join Shepherd for a spin by making a donation to the USO. Shepherd's girlfriend rode with him Saturday for a candlelight anniversary dinner with food from a Chicago restaurant owned by Michael Jordan. The 32-year-old Shepherd called his adventure "a very overwhelming experience" that was made easier by the support of friends, family and the city of Chicago.